Yes, I’ve seen the new and improved Mountain Avenue Gym, through a foggy window, which graced a sturdy and unfortunately locked door. Even still, I’ll concur with the feelings of those who have seen the finished product – notably the Ashland High basketball coaches and AD Karl Kemper. It does indeed look spectacular, especially compared to what was there before, and double-especially compared to where AHS gym rats have spent the last two years honing their games, Ashland Middle School.
Here’s something to keep an eye on, though, when Friday’s grand opening finally gets here: outside shooting, or lack thereof. The gym is pretty big, massive actually if compared to what the Grizz boys and girls are used to. Last season, bigger wasn’t necessarily better for Ashland basketball. The Grizz boys, in particular, struggled to hit shots at McNeal Pavilion and preferred to play at the AMS gym despite its obvious limitations. Shooting from distance in a big gym can take some getting used to, and it will be interesting to see this weekend at the Rotary Hoops Classic which teams adjust and which struggle to hit open jumpers.
I’m hoping to give fans a little look-see soon – the Grizz boys will hold the first practice there Wednesday or Thursday night so that’s where I’ll be interviewing players and coaches for my upcoming RHC preview.
Oh, and one other note on the Classic: the Ashland High girls have yet to lose in the annual tournament, now in its fifth year.
